Detection of Virus Exposure as an Etiological Agent in Patients with Sudden Onset of Psychosis
Description (Set) JHU scientists have developed an assay based on detection of certain viral antigens in patients with a sudden and unexplained onset of psychiatric symptoms. This discovery is rooted in the premise that some viruses are implicated as etiological agents in neurological conditions. JHU scientists determined a significant correlation between onset of sudden psychosis and increased rates of exposure to pathogenic viruses. JHU scientists found that certain psychoses appear to be correlated with infectious virus exposure. Features: ? A blood sample could be used to determine viral exposure in a relatively simple and fast diagnostic test. ? Diagnostic test can detect presence of multiple virus antigens. ? Test is effective across age, gender, education level and smoking habits. ? Multivariate analysis can be used to examine relationship between diagnosis and relevant clinical and demographic variables. Benefits: ? A clinical quantitative test can be used to diagnose a patient with varying symptoms of psychosis. ? A diagnostic clinical test can be performed on a patient that cannot provide coherent information about recent medical history. ? Determination of viral exposure would allow quick and efficient target- specific treatment methods, such as anti-viral drugs to reduce or eliminate psychotic symptoms. ? Administration of unnecessary or non-specific medication to a patient could be reduced. Proposed Use (Set) This technology could be commercialized as a diagnostic assay for individuals presenting with recent onset of psychosis of undetermined cause. The advantage of this detection assay technology is fast, specific diagnosis and treatment of viral infection as an etiological agent of psychosis rather than treating psychiatric symptoms only.Inventor(s): Severance, Emily
Type of Offer: Licensing
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